Harbin, a frost-kissed metropolis in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, isn’t just famous for its ice sculptures – it’s a living symphony. Recognized by UNESCO in 2023 as a \"City of Music,\" Harbin harmonizes classical grandeur with grassroots creativity, offering a soundscape as diverse as its history.
A Legacy of Cultural Fusion
Founded in 1898 as a railway hub, Harbin became a cultural crossroads blending Russian, Chinese, and European influences. Today, orchestras perform Tchaikovsky alongside erhu solos, while jazz clubs buzz beside street performers’ Mandarin ballads. \"Music isn’t just art here – it’s our shared language,\" says local pianist Li Wei.
From Concert Halls to Subway Stations
The city hosts the 60-year-old Harbin Summer Music Concert, Asia’s longest-running music festival. But the beat continues year-round: over 1,000 musical events animate parks, theaters, and even ice hotels annually. CGTN reporter Xu Jinhui recently documented how subway stations double as impromptu stages during icy winters.
Youth-Driven Rhythm
Harbin’s 98 conservatories and music schools fuel its creative pulse. Tech-savvy Gen-Z artists are remixing traditional folk tunes into electronic tracks, while DIY music festivals draw crowds from across the region. \"Our playlists might be global,\" says indie band leader Zhang Yu, \"but Harbin’s soul always shines through.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
